Heather refers to a soft, muted color created by blending different colored fibers into one yarn. Your favorite comfy gray cotton tee that seems to have specks of white in it is the perfect example of “heather gray.” Heather is typically used in clothing like t-shirts and sweaters, and in home furnishings.

Because heather refers to a wide range of fabrics that use this yarn technique, it is a versatile effect that can be found in many different types of clothing. You’ll most commonly see sweatpants and t-shirts with a heather color.

Fabrics made of cotton heather yarns are easy to maintain.

Wrinkling of heather fabrics will depend on the fabric construction. Knits will resist wrinkles much more than woven fabrics, so your favorite t-shirt may not need to be ironed, but a heather dress shirt may need ironing or steaming for a crisp finish.

100% cotton clothing will be easier to clean than manmade fibers, releasing odors and stains more easily in the wash. Make sure to follow your care label’s instructions. We always recommend a cold-water wash and a tumble dry on low to keep your clothes looking and feeling their best.